Salzburg is almost more enchanting in winter than in the other seasons. The pre-Christmas period is simply magical: the lights make the old buildings shine almost like a fairy tale, the scent of mulled wine (err children’s punch) wafts through the narrow streets, and the first snow wraps the hustle and bustle in soft cotton wool. The Christmas market is of course a traditional part of Advent. The kids love it too. The Salzburg Christmas market on Residenz & Domplatz is probably one of the most famous in the world. For me personally, it is not one of my favorites due to the high number of tourists. Too much Remmidemmi, pushing, pushing. It’s a good thing that there is such a diverse selection in Salzburg and the surrounding area.
Christmas Magic in Hellbrunn
Admittedly, the magic of Advent in Hellbrunn is well known and well attended. But the unique children’s Christmas world at the Hellbrunn Advent market is simply unbeatable and always a highlight for our children. In addition to the traditional booths, the kids can grill sausages and bread on a stick in the children’s area over the campfire, write a letter to Santa, ride the Christmas train, play in the dwarf village, watch the many animals or get scared at the Perchten exhibition. The ambience and offer is simply fantastically beautiful, even if not very cheap.
Click here for the page with current details such as opening times, admission prices and program: www.hellbrunneradventzauber.at
Christmas feelings at Salzburg fortress Hohensalzburg
The christmas market at the Salzburg Fortress in the castle courtyard of Hohensalzburg is also particularly beautiful every year. Even the beautifully illuminated walkway to the fortress with its fantastic view of the city of Salzburg is definitely worth it. The fortress advent is small but nice. In the courtyard of the castle you will find a few stands with drinks, sweets and handicrafts. For the children there is also a supervised children’s program in the “Atelier-Hödlmoser” with baking biscuits, Christmas handicrafts and a reading and games corner with Christmas music. But also special spectacles like the visit of the Perchten in the castle courtyard are on the program.
Click here for the page with up-to-date details such as opening hours and programme: www.salzburg-burgen.at
Animal Advent and Christmas market at Gut Aiderbichl
The Salzburg parents probably all know Gut Aiderbichl in Salzburg. The sanctuary offers many animals refuge and lets those grow old in peace that would not have found a place anywhere else. What could be more symbolic of Christmas than this principle? In addition to the great animal experience, there is also a lot of Christmas flair with lights, campfires, (really strong) punch and chestnuts. This market is probably the best way to experience a Christmas market with children, especially because the sales benefit the animals 🙂
Click here for the page with current details such as opening hours and program: www.gut-aiderbichl.com
The christmas Journey in the Salzburg Open-Air Museum Freilichtmuseum
The Advent season in the open-air museum is very traditional and filled with Christmas scents. An experience with all senses and a diverse program. Children can do handicrafts and design, bake, smoke, hear fairy tales and try out old customs and crafts, e.g. in the workshop turning candles or in the spinning mill. But animals also have their place here, as well as a crib exhibition and numerous culinary delights.
Click here for the page with current details such as opening hours and program: www. freilichtmuseum.com
Advent under the linden tree
The time has always come on the third weekend in Advent. One of the most rustic and cozy Christmas markets takes place in Faistenau. In the middle of the mountains, with a living nativity scene, fireplaces, music and Kletzenbrot. In addition, there is also an Advent workshop, horse-drawn sleigh rides, a shepherd’s game, alpacas and a visit to St. Nicholas on the program.
Click here for the page with current details such as opening hours and program: www.faistenau. gv.at
Advent in the Franziskischlössl at Kapuzinerberg
The idyllic Franziskischlössl is located high above the city, in the middle of the forest of the Kapuzinerberg. This Christmas market can be beautifully combined with a short winter walk through the city. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, a small Advent market took place in the inner courtyard for years. Crackling fireplaces, products from the Austrian gourmet regions and real craftsmanship instead of hustle and bustle. Unfortunately this market has to be canceled in 2022. The Franziskischlössl is currently still waiting for new tenants who will bring it back to life. We very much hope to see you again next year.
